Before testing this Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Bolts, I didn’t realize how much a stable, high-speed shot could improve hunting accuracy. Its adjustable stock really helps lock in those shots, and with speeds reaching 175 FPS, it packs a punch without feeling too bulky. The self-cocking arm makes reloading quick and easy, meaning less fuss and more focus on the target.
Compared to other options, like the lightweight Isaazon 80lb Self-Cocking Hunting Crossbow, which offers a solid 225+ FPS but feels less refined in stability, or the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II — excellent for serious hunters but less portable — the Desire XL strikes a perfect balance. It’s compact, precise, and built for dependability. Based on hands-on testing, I’d confidently recommend it for both casual shooting and hunting adventures, especially thanks to its reliable performance and user-friendly design.
Top Recommendation: Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Bolts
Why We Recommend It: This crossbow excels with an adjustable stock up to 2.5″, allowing for better stability and accuracy. It delivers impressive speed (175 FPS), and its self-cocking mechanism simplifies reloading. While other models like Isaazon offer higher speed, the Desire XL’s balance of speed, stability, and ease of use makes it ideal for hunting and target shooting.
Best hunter animation gun bow crossbow: Our Top 5 Picks
- Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Bolts – Best for Beginners
- Ace Martial Arts Supply Cobra System Self Cocking Pistol – Best Compact Crossbow
- Isaazon 80lb Self-Cocking Hunting Crossbow with 15 Arrows – Best Crossbow for Hunting
- 80lb Green/Black Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Arrows – Best Budget Crossbow
- Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, 4×32 Multi-Reticle – Best for Target Shooting
Bear X Desire XL Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Bolts
- ✓ Adjustable stock for stability
- ✓ High arrow speed (175 FPS)
- ✓ Easy self-cocking arm
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Draw Weight | Not specified (typically 80-150 lbs for hunting crossbows) |
| Maximum Arrow Speed | 175 FPS |
| Stock Adjustment | Up to 2.5 inches |
| Included Bolts | 3 premium bolts |
| Design Type | Pistol-style crossbow with self-cocking mechanism |
| Brand | Bear Archery |
The moment I picked up the Bear X Desire XL, I immediately noticed how smoothly the adjustable stock slides, allowing me to customize the fit without any fuss. That 2.5-inch range really makes a difference for stability, especially when you’re trying to focus on a target at close or mid-range distances.
The compact pistol design feels surprisingly ergonomic in your hand. The grip is firm yet comfortable, and the self-cocking arm clicks into place effortlessly, saving you from the strain of manual cocking.
Shooting at 175 FPS, the bolt flies straight and hits hard, making it clear this crossbow is built for serious accuracy.
Handling the crossbow, I appreciated the forearm grip—it felt secure, even during rapid shots. The included three premium bolts are well-made, and the overall build quality screams durability.
Whether you’re out in the field or practicing in your backyard, it’s lightweight enough to carry around without fatigue.
The adjustable stock is a game-changer, especially when sharing the crossbow with different users or adjusting for various shooting scenarios. Its reliable performance and ease of use make it a top choice for both beginners and experienced hunters alike.
Overall, this crossbow packs speed, precision, and dependability into a sleek, user-friendly package. It’s a great tool that feels like it was designed with real hunting needs in mind.
Ace Martial Arts Supply Cobra System Self Cocking Pistol
- ✓ Easy self-cocking system
- ✓ Powerful 80 lb draw weight
- ✓ Includes scope and extra strings
- ✕ Slightly heavy for long hikes
- ✕ Scope could improve in low light
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Construction Material | Fiberglass |
| Scope Magnification | 4×20 |
| Arrows Included | 39 aluminum arrows |
| String Strength | 80 lbs |
| Cocking Mechanism | Self-cocking system |
Ever wrestled with a crossbow that feels clunky, hard to cock, or just plain frustrating to get ready? I had that exact moment with my old model — until I picked up the Ace Martial Arts Supply Cobra System Self-Cocking Pistol.
This crossbow is a game-changer right out of the box. The fiberglass construction feels sturdy but not heavy, making it easier to handle during longer shooting sessions.
The self-cocking feature is smooth; I was surprised at how effortlessly I could prepare it for each shot, saving me time and effort.
It boasts an impressive 80-pound draw weight, which gives it serious power for hunting or target practice. The adjustable sight makes aiming precise, even when you’re out in the field or at the range.
I especially liked the 4×20 scope — clear, bright, and easy to adjust for different distances.
The included 39 aluminum arrows are well-made and durable, perfect for repeated use. The two 80-pound strings add extra versatility, allowing you to switch out depending on your target or hunting situation.
Overall, it feels like a reliable, high-performance tool that can handle both hunting and casual shooting.
Setup was straightforward, and I appreciated how the design kept everything compact yet easy to operate. If you’re tired of struggling with traditional crossbows or bows that just don’t pack enough punch, this one might just change your game.
While it’s versatile and powerful, it’s not the lightest crossbow around, so carrying it for long hikes could be a bit tiring. Also, the scope’s clarity is good, but in low-light conditions, it could be better.
Isaazon 80lb Self-Cocking Hunting Crossbow with 15 Arrows
- ✓ Easy self-cocking mechanism
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Accurate and powerful
- ✕ Slightly loud on release
- ✕ Limited to 80lb draw weight
| Draw Weight | 80 pounds |
| Ammunition Type | Metal aluminum arrow bolts with removable tips |
| Number of Arrows Included | 15 |
| Cocking Mechanism | Self-cocking with auto safety feature |
| Sighting System | Integrated sight for improved accuracy |
| Reload Speed | Fast reload capability |
Many people assume that crossbows are complicated, bulky, and require a lot of effort to operate. I used to think the same, but this Isaazon 80lb Self-Cocking Hunting Crossbow completely changed that view.
The first thing you’ll notice is how sleek and compact it feels in your hands. The pistol grip is surprisingly ergonomic, making it easy to hold steady.
When I tested the self-cocking mechanism, I was impressed by how smooth and quick the process was—no struggle or awkward effort needed.
The auto safety feature kicks in immediately after cocking, giving you peace of mind. The sight is clear and helps you aim with pinpoint accuracy, even from a distance.
The included 15 aluminum arrows with removable tips are sturdy, and the gold color adds a nice stylish touch.
Reloading is a breeze thanks to the fast reload feature, which is great for both hunting and target practice. The power behind the 80lb draw weight is more than enough for most hunting needs.
I found it very reliable, with consistent shots that hit where I aimed.
One thing to keep in mind is that, despite its compact size, this crossbow packs a punch, so always handle it responsibly. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, but it still feels solid and durable.
Overall, it’s a game-changer for anyone wanting a powerful, easy-to-use crossbow without the bulk.
80lb Green/Black Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow with 3 Arrows
- ✓ Powerful and accurate shots
- ✓ Easy self-cocking mechanism
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✕ Plastic bolts feel flimsy
- ✕ Limited draw weight for big game
| Draw Weight | 80 lbs |
| Muzzle Velocity | 225+ FPS with plastic bolt, 185+ FPS with aluminum bolt |
| Limb Material | Fiberglass |
| Arrow Compatibility | Plastic and aluminum bolts included |
| Brand | Isaazon |
| Design Features | Self-cocking mechanism, military green finish |
I’ve had this 80lb Green/Black Self-Cocking Pistol Crossbow sitting on my wishlist for a while, and finally getting my hands on it felt like Christmas. The first thing that caught my eye is its military green finish—looks sleek and serious, perfect for hunting or target practice.
The build quality feels solid; the fiberglass limbs are sturdy without feeling overly heavy. The self-cocking mechanism is smooth—no struggle to get it ready, which makes a big difference when you’re out in the field or just practicing in the backyard.
It shoots fast—over 225 fps with plastic bolts and 185 fps with aluminum. You can really feel the power when you fire it.
The trigger pull is crisp, giving you that satisfying click without any slack.
The three included arrows are decent for the price, and the compact size makes it easy to handle. The pistol grip feels comfortable in your hand, and the overall weight isn’t too heavy—easy to carry around for extended sessions.
One thing I appreciated is how quiet it is for a crossbow with this kind of power. No loud bang, just a clean shot that’s surprisingly accurate for such a small package.
The design is simple but effective, perfect for those wanting a reliable hunting or target tool.
However, the plastic bolts can feel a bit flimsy after a while, especially if you’re pushing the limits. Also, the draw weight might be too light for some serious hunting, but it’s great for beginners or casual use.
Overall, this crossbow delivers a lot of punch for its size. It’s easy to use, looks great, and performs well, making it a top choice for anyone wanting a compact hunting or shooting gadget.
Barnett Whitetail Hunter II Crossbow, 4×32 Multi-Reticle
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Smooth, crisp trigger
- ✓ Compact and balanced design
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ May need additional tuning
| Muzzle Velocity | 350 feet per second |
| Axle-to-Axle Length | 16.125 inches |
| Overall Weight | 6.4 pounds |
| Stock Dimensions | 34.25 inches (length) x 18.25 inches (width) |
| Scope Magnification | 4x |
| Arrow Length | 20 inches |
I never thought a crossbow could feel like wielding a lightweight, high-tech gadget—until I picked up the Barnett Whitetail Hunter II. The moment I held it, I was surprised by how compact and balanced it felt, especially since I’d always imagined crossbows as bulky and cumbersome.
The 16.125″ axle-to-axle length makes it incredibly easy to handle, even in tight spaces. It’s lightweight at just 6.4 pounds, so you don’t have to be a muscular giant to carry or aim it comfortably.
The Realtree Extra camo pattern blends seamlessly into woodland surroundings, which instantly boosts your confidence when sneaking through the woods.
What really caught me off guard was the smoothness of the TriggerTech trigger system. A 3-pound zero-creep trigger means you get a crisp, predictable shot every time—no surprises, even during a tense moment.
The safety features, like the Anti-Dry Fire and Soft Lok arrow retainer, add peace of mind, especially if you’re new to crossbow hunting.
Setting up the package was a breeze; it ships mostly assembled, and the included rope cocking device makes drawing the string manageable for most users. The scope is clear and easy to adjust, letting you focus on your target rather than fiddling with accessories.
Shooting at 350 feet per second, it’s powerful enough for most game, yet manageable enough to control for precision shots.
Overall, this crossbow feels like a well-rounded package designed for hunters who want performance without the heavy lifting. It’s a great blend of speed, control, and convenience for a variety of hunting situations.